Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly regarded as a robust means for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers of hair that are actively growing, hair offers a prolonged record of alcohol and drug use. When taken close to the scalp, it can reveal use over a period of up to three months. Collection of hair is straightforward, it's not easily tampered with, and transportation is uncomplicated.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 strands (approximating the diameter of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is an ideal quantity for both screening and verification. For tests including EtG, additional items, or those exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. It is suggested to weigh samples using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, collecting an equivalent amount of body hair is acceptable. When referencing head hair, it specifically means scalp hair. "Body hair" pertains to all other forms, including facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for determining drug test outcomes comprises four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary phase where a sample is introduced into the laboratory's operations. This phase ensures the sample was sealed and dispatched appropriately, assigns it a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completes any further data entries not encompassed by an automated chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial rapid assessment for the presence of abuse drugs. As a cost-effective method, it eliminates drug usage in most samples; however, a confirmed positive screen is necessary for legal proceedings. Samples that yield a presumptive positive result in Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
During Screening, if a sample indicates a presumptive positive, extra hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. At this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), marking hair drug screening as the most complex method.
Confirmation of any screening positive outcome is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if required. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under the College of American Pathologists (CAP) Hair guideline and accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests", these tests actually assess the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bennet, NE
Hair testing offers significant advantages over urine tests by providing a broader detection window and better reliability. The precision of hair analysis means you can trust the findings with greater confidence, making it the superior choice for discerning substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Bennet, NE
Hair follicle testing uniquely offers a prolonged detection period, capturing drug use history for up to 90 days. This expansive timeframe provides employers with a complete picture of an individual's substance habits, critical for informed recruitment and oversight processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bennet, NE
One of the standout benefits of hair follicle tests is their resistance to tampering. The inherent design and method of collection make it virtually impossible to alter or contaminate the sample, ensuring the results you receive are factual and defensible.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bennet, NE
The extensive network of Accredited Drug Testing centers nationwide ensures that accessing our services is seamlessly convenient. Whether in Bennet or any other city, our locations facilitate easy and hassle-free testing processes.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bennet, NE
We pride ourselves on maintaining a simple and confidential approach to drug testing. From ordering to conducting the test and receiving results, our process is straightforward, ensuring user privacy and the ease of access for all clients.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bennet, NE
Our competitive pricing models and rapid result turnaround times offer excellent value for organizations of every scale. Enjoy the assurance that our affordable services bring, knowing you are receiving top-tier testing efficiently.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bennet, NE
Our hair follicle drug testing is not only quick but also highly accurate, making it an excellent choice for detecting substance use. The advanced techniques used ensure that the results are reliable, providing you with the assurance you need when it comes to critical decisions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bennet, NE
Utilizing hair follicle testing is pivotal for maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. The robust nature of these tests helps mitigate legal liabilities and enhances overall workplace safety, providing much-needed peace of mind.
